Herengracht, Amsterdam

We recently spent a week in Amsterdam and enjoyed strolling along Herengracht (canal) several times during our stay. This is one of the three principle canals that make up the UNESCO World Heritage Site - Grachtengordel, a semi-circular arrangement of three canals that form the Canal Ring in the city centre. Herengracht is the inner most of the three canals and considered the most important in the city. During its construction in the 17th century, this was where the most wealthy of the city merchants bought plots to build their mansion houses and large scale properties, many of which remain and can be viewed along the banks of this beautiful canal today. Note: If you want to visit one of these properties, try the Willet-Holthuysen House and Museum near the junction of Herengracht and the Amstel River. Obviously taking a boat ride that includes time on the Herengracht can be a rewarding experience if you enjoy traveling by water. I prefer the slower, longer walks along the canal, allowing you more time to enjoy and appreciate the architecture of the buildings along Herengracht. During this time of the year, many of the trees along the canal are turning, resulting in some good autumn foliage sightings as well. In the end, Herengracht is a lovely canal in Amsterdam... but there are others worth spending time as well. Keizersgracht, Prinsengracht and even the Singelgracht, which is nearer to Dam Square and the more popular sightseeing within the city centre are well worth exploring as well.

Stroll along the Herengracht and enjoy the water, the buildings and the people walking and sitting outside having a chat and a drink. The buildings are beautiful and you have to turn your head upwards to get the complete view and all the magnificent details of the houses.